The classic tropical beach getaway
1,666 km² (643 mi²)
1963
June to October & December to February
On Zanzibar holidays, you’ll find turquoise seas with traditional dhow boats sailing the Swahili Coast, plus tranquil white-sand beaches shaded by palms. Just 35 km from Tanzania’s mainland, Zanzibar is a dream destination—ideal for honeymoons or a relaxing post-safari beach retreat. Stay in thatched cottages, eco-friendly lodges, or upmarket resorts featuring spas and pools. Dive crystal-clear reefs, swim with Whale Sharks, and immerse yourself in Stone Town’s spice-scented alleys—now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best times are June to October and December to February, aligning with Tanzania’s dry seasons. Experience minimal humidity, warm breezes, and crystal waters—perfect after a mainland safari or a Mount Kilimanjaro trek. Expect short rains around November–December, and long rains from March–May.
The Swahili Coast offers a dreamy beach setting with turquoise waters and top-notch hospitality. Sail past coconut palm-fringed shores in a traditional dhow, or test your adrenaline with kitesurfing. Complete your island experience with a spice tour showcasing Zanzibar’s heritage in the global spice trade.
• Stone Town: Wander narrow lanes, savor
local street food, and marvel at carved wooden doors
merging African, Arab, and Indian designs.
• Spice Tour: Half-day guided walk
through spice plantations near Stone Town.
• Dhow Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing,
traditional sailing experience—sunset recommended.
• Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Encounter Whale Sharks
(Sep–Feb) or explore vibrant reefs with ~500 marine species.
• Beach & Water Sports: Sunbathe
under palm trees, kite in Paje, or feast on fresh seafood
near the shore.
The Indian Ocean around Zanzibar hosts around 500 marine species—starfish, lionfish, cuttlefish, octopus, hawksbill turtles, manta rays, and humpback whales. Inland, the Jozani–Chwaka Bay Biosphere Reserve shelters lush mangroves, salt marshes, and the Zanzibar Red Colobus monkey. Fertile soils and a tropical climate support the island’s famed spice plantations, linking you to centuries of history.
The Zanzibar Archipelago comprises two main islands— Unguja (commonly called Zanzibar) and Pemba Island—plus smaller isles. Arrive by plane from Arusha or Dar es Salaam into Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ), near the historical Stone Town. From there, venture north to Nungwi or east to Paje, Jambiani, and Pongwe for diving, snorkeling, and chill beach vibes. Eco-friendly Chumbe Island draws nature lovers, while southern islands like Mafia Island promise quieter sands and impressive Whale Shark encounters.
Enjoy a glimpse of Zanzibar’s turquoise waters, lively marine life, and charming coastal scenery:
Zanzibar’s dreamy shores are an ideal post-safari retreat or a standalone beach escape. Whether you’ve scaled Mount Kilimanjaro or roamed the Serengeti, Zanzibar adds a peaceful finishing touch to your Tanzanian journey. Let us arrange a balance of thrilling safari experiences and warm island relaxation. Coconut water under lush palm fronds awaits!